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February 2, 2026
Maria Magdalena – “Ek het Hom gesien!” Kom wees deel van Welkom-Wes se Paasopvoering
February 2, 2026
As part of the national HPV awareness campaign in February, Uplift Media News interviewed Dr. Pierre Scott from Welkom to learn more about Human Papillomavirus (HPV), the vaccine, and what the public needs to know.
“HPV is a very common and highly contagious virus,” explains Dr. Scott. “It is spread mainly through sexual contact. Most people who are infected are unaware of it because they often show no symptoms. The danger is that, if left untreated, certain types of HPV can lead to cervical cancer and genital warts.”
Dr. Scott emphasized that although symptoms are uncommon, HPV should not be ignored. Asked how HPV can be detected if most cases have no symptoms, he explained that HPV can be diagnosed through screening tests, such as PAP smears and HPV testing, which are important tools in early detection and prevention of cervical cancer.
About the HPV vaccine he says: “The HPV vaccine protects against the most common high-risk subtypes of the virus that are linked to cervical cancer. The vaccine is both very safe and very effective.” He added that side effects are usually mild, with occasional redness or discomfort at the injection site.
Regarding vaccination timing, Dr. Scott advised: “The recommended age for the first HPV vaccination is around 12 years, before exposure to the virus. A follow-up dose is usually given after six months. For adults, the vaccine is also effective, but the dosage schedule may differ and may include additional doses.”
Dr. Scott concluded by saying, “The best time to receive the HPV vaccine is at a young age, but it can be given at any age. I strongly recommend that women consider the HPV vaccine. However, it is important to consult your doctor beforehand, as many medical aid plans do not cover the cost of the vaccine.”
(Written by Estelle Dansey)
(Image: HPV is a sexually transmitted disease. Please see for yourself on the internet what this virus does to the human body. Image: https://www.nfid.org/infectious-disease/hpv/
